F1 Tyre Wars - Pirelli or Michelin or both?

F1 Grand Prix of Belgium – Qualifying

An engineer inspects the tyres at the recent Belgian Grand Prix (Getty Images)

Pirelli went under the scanner for the recent tyre debacle. Michelin, too, have had their share of controversies in Formula One and have been quite vocal of their concerns over the current supply of tyres by Pirelli which degrade quickly, artificially helping in increased overtaking and making pit-stops a tactical element during the race. But that’s what Pirelli have been asked to provide by the FIA.

Previews for the French Grand Prix

Michelin has emerged as a possible Tyre Supplier for the 2014 season. Moreover, Michelin have shown their discomfort in supplying the current set of 13-inch tyres and would want their 18-inch tyres instead (which would have an impact on the suspension configuration and the gearbox). Though Michelin have reportedly done away with their rigidness and are open to both a single or shared supplier option, they are expected to force their technologically advanced slick wet tyres into use. Pirelli however, would be averse to the idea of sharing their duties. Another twist in the tale is that Jean Todt, the FIA President, has been linked to having a soft-corner for Michelin(blame it on the French connection).

Pirelli have a commercial contract with Bernie Ecclestone (Chief of Fomula One Management) and a deal with most of the teams (there may be opt-out options in these contracts in-case FIA decides to have 2 suppliers). The agreement, however, with FIA-the regulatory body, as the official supplier is yet to be inked. Pirelli continue to be on the job to develop their tyres for next year and with current set of affairs it does make sense for them to continue in Formula One at least for 2014, if not later. A two supplier model can be worked for the 2015 season after a healthy analysis with concurrence from the teams and if it is in the best interest of the sport.

The clock as of now is ticking and the situation at hand seems quite comical yet dangerous. Between all the speculation and the confusion, the teams have to develop their cars for the next season and are yet to know about their tyre supplier and the configuration of a critical component. By the look of it, if the matter isn’t resolved quickly, wer are bound to have a comedy of errors sooner or later.